An independent artist (Kleber Silva) fired up Photoshop days after Toyota launched the Corolla Cross in June 2020 to transform the small crossover into an imagined compact pickup truck. Now in August 2023, a new report from a dependable source claims that the fictitious truck may eventually come into existence.
The Japanese automaker is reportedly considering a compact truck based on the Corolla model family, according to reliable sources at Automotive News. The article’s tone suggests that the project is still in its early stages and that no final decision has been made. According to Automotive News, a “Corolla-based pickup remains a possibility, but its design is still under development.”
The small pickup won’t go on sale before 2027, even if it receives an actual green light. If the aforementioned timeline is correct, we can expect the utility vehicle to be built on the next-generation Toyota Corolla rather than the current model.
Related: Hyundai Unveils the Santa Cruz Pickup
A smaller truck based on Corolla would slot below the Hilux and allow Toyota to compete with the likes of Hyundai Santa Cruz. Much like the competing trucks, a Corolla with a bed will likely have a unibody construction rather than a tougher ladder frame chassis. However, it’s still too early to say whether the Corolla pickup would exclusively be available in North American markets or if Toyota will also make it available in other parts of the world.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com